Latest news with #CamplifyUK
Scotsman
a day ago
- Scotsman
Move over NC500: Best alternative UK road trips revealed
Clyde Sea Lochs and the Argyll Coast has been named the best Scottish alternative to the NC500 road trip route this summer. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Scotland's Clyde Sea Lochs and the Argyll Coast has been named the UK's third best destination for a quieter road trip in the inaugural Alternative Road Trip Index, an extensive study of routes around the country that offer quieter alternatives to popular routes affected by overtourism like the NC500. Created by Camplify UK, the index follows the boom of the Van Life movement in the UK, which has seen some of the best-known and established routes – such as Scotland's North Coast 500 – see high congestion on its roads, with limited options for parking, pitching, and experiencing the full potential of what life on the road can offer. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Highlighting routes less-travelled, the Index considers both fun and functional factors that make a road trip one to remember: from the number of petrol stations and public toilets on route, to the scenery and opportunities for sightseeing along the way. The First Alternative Road Trips Index launched to help holidaymakers fuel their summer adventures with road trip routes less impacted by overtourism. The Best Routes According to the rankings, The Historic South offers road trippers the best opportunity for a quieter road trip this summer. The 720km jaunt, which takes between seven and ten days to complete, takes drivers through some of the richest heritage England has to offer – from the historic city of Canterbury and its World Heritage-listed cathedral to the historic docks of Portsmouth, with stops at the fascinating sites of Stonehenge and Avebury also included. The Cambrian Way in Wales, and Clyde Sea Lochs and the Argyll Coast in Scotland complete the top three, both scoring highly for the volume of attractions that feature on the routes, as well as the quantity and quality of campsites that adventure-seekers can stay at overnight. There are plenty of toilet stops too! Coastal and historic routes dominate the top ten. The picturesque drives along Wales' Coastal Way, Cornwall's Coast, and the Jurassic Coast prove a perfect choice for those looking for incredible scenery and spots to swim, whilst the Historic Northumberland and Borders Historic Route in Scotland great for those hoping to discover some of the UK's incredible history. The Top 10 Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad RANK Route Location Score 1 The Historic South England 138 2 The Cambrian Way Wales 126 3 Clyde Sea Lochs and the Argyll Coast Scotland 125 4 The North Wales Way Wales 115 5 The Coastal Way Wales 107 6 Cornwall's Coast England 105 7= The Jurassic Coast England 100 7= Borders Historic Route Scotland 100 8 Historic Northumberland England 99 9 The Cotswolds England 97 Tom Quayle at Camplify UK commented: 'Whether you're new to Van Life or have lost count of how many road trips you've been on, everyone can agree that taking to the open road and seeing the beautiful countryside around the UK is an incredibly fulfilling experience. 'Routes like Scotland's North Coast 500 are popular for a reason – they offer beautiful, bucket-list experiences that understandably appeal to lots of us – but the UK is home to countless others that have the same characteristics but with fewer visitors. With this study of the best alternative road trips, we hope more holidaymakers feel inspired to get closer to nature along the wealth of routes our country has to offer.' For more information, inspiration, and to find a van perfect for your summer adventure, visit 1st Place: The Historic South, England Perfect for longer adventures, The Historic South road trip route in England has it all: historical locations, scenic stretches, and some of Britain's best and most-loved landmarks. At 450 miles, you'll need between seven and ten days to see it all, but it's well worth it: start the engine and get ready to soak up history and culture, breaking the drive up with stops at Rye, Brighton, Salisbury and Bath. 2nd Place: The Cambrian Way, Wales Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Perfect for those looking to get closer to nature, The Cambrian Way takes you through some of the most breathtaking parts of Wales. Starting in Cardiff, the 185-mile drive begins with a culture shot before guiding you through fields, forests, and mountains. You'll see the Brecon Beacons, Pen-y-Fan and the Cambrian Mountains, with lots of opportunities to park up and explore. 3rd Place: Clyde Sea Lochs and the Argyll Coast, Scotland Winding north and west through the rugged terrain of the Highlands, this 240-mile route can be done over a long weekend. One of the best the UK has to offer for mountains and lochs, you'll be able to enjoy majestic views, historic towns, and the popular walking country of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs in all their glory. With opportunities for kayaking and whale watching offshore, this one is perfect for the adventurous.
The Herald Scotland
4 days ago
- The Herald Scotland
Route through Hampshire named as UK's best road trip
It earned this honour on the Alternative Road Trip Index, which was created by Camplify. This provided an extensive study of routes around the country that offer quieter alternatives to popular routes affected by overtourism. Camplify adds: "Highlighting routes less-travelled, the Index considers both fun and functional factors that make a road trip one to remember: from the number of petrol stations and public toilets on route, to the scenery and opportunities for sightseeing along the way." A route labelled 'The Historic South' was ranked as the best one, which travels through Hampshire as part of it. The full list of the UK's best alternative road trips can be found on the Camplify website here. Route that stops off in Winchester among UK's best alternative road trips The Historic South route is said to offer "road trippers the best opportunity for a quieter road trip this summer." In total, it is 720km long, with it taking between seven and 10 days to complete. The route takes road trippers "from the historic city of Canterbury and its World Heritage-listed cathedral to the historic docks of Portsmouth, with stops at the fascinating sites of Stonehenge and Avebury also included." Camplify adds: "Perfect for longer adventures, The Historic South road trip route in England has it all: historical locations, scenic stretches, and some of Britain's best and most-loved landmarks. "At 450 miles, you'll need between seven and ten days to see it all, but it's well worth it: start the engine and get ready to soak up history and culture, breaking the drive up with stops at Rye, Brighton, Salisbury and Bath." One of the stops on the route is Winchester, where people can explore the Cathedral, great pubs and historical points of interest. A route map for the Historic South can be found on the Google Maps page here. Recommended reading: Tom Quayle at Camplify UK said: 'Whether you're new to Van Life or have lost count of how many road trips you've been on, everyone can agree that taking to the open road and seeing the beautiful countryside around the UK is an incredibly fulfilling experience. 'Routes like Scotland's North Coast 500 are popular for a reason – they offer beautiful, bucket-list experiences that understandably appeal to lots of us – but the UK is home to countless others that have the same characteristics but with fewer visitors. "With this study of the best alternative road trips, we hope more holidaymakers feel inspired to get closer to nature along the wealth of routes our country has to offer.'
Daily Record
19-05-2025
- Daily Record
Horse box-turned-campervan with private balcony is the ultimate Scottish summer getaway
Once a horse box, Duckie is now a luxury campervan in Dunkeld with a hidden TV, waterfall shower, and private balcony. A horse box-turned-luxury campervan is turning heads thanks to a jaw-dropping makeover that's packed with surprises. Duckie, the latest listing on Camplify UK, is a converted horse lorry based in the picturesque Perthshire town of Dunkeld. After retiring from its initial role of transporting steeds, it has been transformed into one of the most unique and luxurious ways to travel the country, offering a glamping experience unlike any other. Inside Duckie, you'll find a hot waterfall shower, gas hob, oven, fridge and ceiling fan, as well as a sleek seating area and LED mood lighting throughout. And just when you think it can't get any more extravagant, the van reveals its pièce de résistance: a private balcony. It's the ideal spot for enjoying breakfast al fresco or soaking in golden-hour views after a day on the road. When night falls, a double bed fitted with a five-inch memory foam mattress promises a peaceful night's sleep. Available to hire from £100 per night (£50 per person), Duckie sleeps two and is pet-friendly. It also includes full AA breakdown cover and insurance for added peace of mind. With pick-up from Dunkeld, guests are perfectly positioned to explore two of Scotland's most scenic routes, the Heart 200 and the legendary North Coast 500. According to Camplify's website, this campervan is designed to be 'a true off-grid haven', offering a slice of modern comfort amid the great outdoors. Powered by solar energy, it lets you explore far and wide while keeping your environmental footprint small. The listing reads: 'Step out of the ordinary and dive into an extraordinary adventure with our campervan! "Get ready to embrace a journey where comfort meets creativity… a once-in-a-lifetime experience that's as cozy as your favourite apartment.' The interior, finished in calming neutrals, is full of surprises. With the touch of a button, a hidden TV emerges from a sideboard, offering the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. 'Catch up on shows, enjoy movie nights, or stay connected – it's your call,' Camplify says. Cooking on the go is simple thanks to the well-equipped kitchen setup, and for those wanting to dine under the stars, the camper includes outdoor furniture for meals on the balcony. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. 'Whether you're capturing sunsets or stargazing, this spot is pure magic,' the description continues. 'Our campervan redefines glamping on wheels. "Whether you're an adventurer seeking a cosy base or a couple craving a romantic getaway, our campervan strikes the perfect balance.' With bookings now open, Duckie is set to offer couples and campers alike a stylish escape that blends luxury living with wild adventure, all from the back of a beautifully reimagined horse box.
Scottish Sun
17-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
Unique campervan ticks all the boxes for luxurious Scots road trip – it's a must for horse lovers
Take in all of Scotland's glorious scenery from the comfort of your own 'home on wheels' ON THE HOOF Unique campervan ticks all the boxes for luxurious Scots road trip – it's a must for horse lovers Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) ROAD trips just became a little more lux, thanks to this unusual campervan? Duckie is a lovingly converted horse box, kitted out with a host of modern features - from a waterfall shower and gas hob to a hidden telly. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 8 The converted horsebox even has it's own little patio to take in the views And just when you think you've seen it all, it offers something totally unexpected - a patio, perfect for soaking up the summer sun and taking in scenic views where ever you may be. The horse-box-cum-campervan has just been unveiled by Camplify UK and is available for hire now. Far from an ordinary ride, it offers adventure-seekers the opportunity to embrace the great outdoors in complete luxury, in this unique camper full of character. Based in Dunkeld, Perthshire Duckie has been completely transformed into a glamping paradise that blends the necessities of life on the road with a host of modern luxuries. Perfect for a couple, the van has been completed in a neutral tones inside and out. The extensive refurb saw the installation of a hot waterfall shower, perfect for refreshing starts to the day or easing aching muscles after outdoor adventures. 8 Duckie has a very wlecome waterfall shower 8 The kitchen area has hob and oven and plenty of space for dining 8 Eat round the dining table before relaxing on the sofa in from of the TV 8 The double bed has a comfy memory foam mattress for a great night's sleep The small kitchen come is perfect for self-catering on the road, thanks to gas hob and oven, working sink, plenty of cupboard space to store the necessities and worktop to prepare meals. There's even a clever table to dine at and a sofa for nights in watching the hidden TV that magically emerges from a sideboard. As the day winds down its retractable balcony will be the perfect spot to take in the scenery, thanks to the supplied table and chairs, which fit snugly inside the van when driving. And as darkness descends, the double bed – kitted out with a comfy memory foam mattress – beckons for a good night's sleep. The North Coast 500: Scotland's Must-Visit Road Trip Beats the Grand Canyon Duckie is available for hire through Camplify UK, one of the largest campervan and motorhome sharing communities globally. Sleeping two and pet friendly, she is costs from £100 a day. Dunkeld is the perfect starting point for any road trip in Scotland as Perthshire is widely known as the 'gateway' to the Highlands. 8 Duckie can be picked up from the village of Dunkeld in Perthshire Credit: Alamy 8 Kylesku Bridge along the NC500 8 Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Credit: Getty Guests can take advantage of that easy access to take in some of the country's most iconic driving routes including the iconic North Coast 500. It's also perfect for exploring the newer Heart 200, which is, as the name suggests, a 200-mile long route through the best of Heart of Scotland, covering Perth, Stirling, The Trossachs, Loch Lomond, Blair Atholl and many more popular destinations.
